The Foundation for Energy Security and Innovation (FESI) is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that partners with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to advance America’s energy security, environmental stewardship, and economic prosperity. Through collaboration with energy researchers, higher education institutions, industry, and philanthropic organizations, FESI accelerates the commercialization of transformative science and technology solutions that address the nation’s most pressing energy and environmental challenges.

About the Role

FESI is in a rapid startup phase—building its team, launching strategic initiatives, and establishing scalable systems to deliver on its mission. We are seeking a highly skilled, hands-on Director of Operations to lead the design, implementation, and optimization of organizational systems, processes, and data infrastructure. This role will be central in building project management and CRM systems, ensuring operational excellence, and creating a high-performance culture. The Director will oversee staff development, implement operational frameworks, and ensure efficient, compliant, and data-driven decision-making across the organization.

Responsibilities

Oversee FESI’s operational systems, processes, and policies with an emphasis on efficiency, scalability, and continuous improvement.
Establish, maintain, and optimize project management systems (expertise with Asana, Monday.com or similar) and CRM platforms (Salesforce, RaisersEdge NXT, or similar).
Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency, compliance, and quality.
Collaborate with leadership to define, monitor, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) for organizational success.
Provide cross-functional support for grant compliance tracking, reporting, and operational audits.
Support financial administration, including budget tracking, vendor management, and fiscal reporting.
Ensure adherence to nonprofit regulations, grant requirements, and internal policies.
Manage and integrate technology systems, including software integrations, data security protocols, and user permissions.
Provide training and ongoing support to staff on operational tools and workflows.
Lead initiatives to foster professional growth, staff engagement, and a collaborative, mission-driven culture.
Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and enable staff success.

Required Qualifications

7+ years of progressive experience in operations leadership, preferably in cross-functional or multi-sector environments.
Proven success building and managing project management systems and CRM platforms.
Demonstrated expertise in systems or operations management within a nonprofit, mission-driven, or startup environment.
Strong skills in project management, process improvement, and organizational planning.
Proficiency with productivity and collaboration tools (Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, Slack, Zoom).
Excellent problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and thrive in a fast-paced setting.
Familiarity with nonprofit compliance, budgeting, and reporting processes.

Preferred

Experience building and scaling operations in a startup phase.
PMP, Lean Six Sigma, or CRM Administrator certification (e.g., Salesforce Certified Administrator).
Experience supporting grant compliance and reporting processes.
Strong analytical and change management skills.

Pay range and compensation package

Base Salary: $120,000 – $140,000 (Washington, DC benchmark; national roles adjusted for regional cost of labor).
Bonus: Up to 10% of base salary tied to strategic goals and milestones.
Benefits: Health, dental, and vision insurance; 403(b) retirement plan with employer match; paid time off and holidays; professional development allowance; flexible work schedule/hybrid options.

Equal Opportunity Statement

This position is based in Washington, DC, with flexibility for remote work. Candidates outside the DC area must be able to travel to the home office every 4–6 weeks.

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The Foundation for Energy Security and Innovation (FESI) jobs

Director of Operations

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